Abstract: The invention concerns a protective headgear comprising a respirator (2) capable of being connected to a breathing mixture source, an eye protecting shield (5) and first (32) and second (56) lock elements, respectively located on the respirator (2) and on the shield (6) and adapted to co-operate with each other to secure the shield (6) to the respirator (2), when the respirator is in its use position on the user's face, the first (32) and second (56) lock elements being adapted to be mutually engaged and interlocked by a movement bringing the shield (6) closer to the respirator (2), from above.

Abstract: The instant invention known as “H.A.L.O. HYBIRD” ™ is an amusing multipurpose hand tool primarily used to manipulate fluid mass and multitask secondary related and unrelated natural and synthetic matter. The H.A.L.O. HYBIRD™ device, (Fig. AOK) comprising a generally flat, rounded planar member which is sufficiently sized to expand the surface area of a users hand, is provided with a primary powerface (FIGS. 9a & 11a), a secondary powerface (FIGS. 9b & 11b), a leading edge (FIGS. 9c & 11c), a peripheral edge (FIG. 9d & 11d), a trailing edge (FIGS. 9e & 11e), a finger receiving aperture (FIGS. 9f & 11f), a center balance point (FIGS. 9g & 11g), a plurality of “optional” vortice producing apertures (FIGS. 9h & 11h), an integrally formed gripping region (FIGS. 9i & 11i), a hand receiving aperture bifurcating the peripheral edge (FIGS. 9j & 11j), a plurality of apertures (FIGS. 9k & 11k) facilitating a releasable hand securement means (FIGS.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved bib retaining device. The bib retaining device comprises an elongate resilient member having a central portion and opposite end portions, the central portion of the elongate resilient member being formed into a neck engaging portion, the end portions extending outwardly from the neck engaging portion, and a bib retaining member attached to each end portion of the elongate resilient member. A method of using a bib retaining device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Elastic inserts (15, 25) are incorporated in selected zones such as the legs and arms of an article of garment for motorcyclists, for example a leather suit, said inserts having a shape and manner of application such that the configuration of the garment in the rest condition corresponds to the position of the person wearing the garment when riding a motorcycle, but also allows said person to move freely when not sat in the saddle of the motorcycle.

Abstract: A protective undergarment comprises an outer layer of fluid-resistant material shaped to conform to the buttock and leg region of a user, and an elongated sling of material connected to the outer layer. Opposite sides of the sling are bowed inward and joined together at a first end of the sling to form a first pocket part for retaining one end of a fluid absorbent pad. A cuff is connected between the first end of the sling and the outer layer. The second end of the sling is connected to the outer layer, and an intermediate portion of the sling between the first and second ends of the sling is folded longitudinally into an S-shape so as to provide three plies of the material establishing a second pocket part for retaining an opposite end of the fluid absorbent pad.

Abstract: An expandable button assembly for a garment having a tab portion with a button mounted thereon. The tab portion is at least partially made of an elastic material to allow for the tab to expand or stretch during a pulling of the button. When the button is incorporated into a collar of a shirt, the design allows for the collar to be expanded as far as the elastic material in the tab will allow. Thus, if the collar is too small for the wearer in an un expanded condition, the collar will expand to allow the shirt to be worn without discomfort and without any additions to the shirt.

Abstract: An article retention apparatus is provided which includes a glove portion, first article retention means which include first retainer closure means, and glove-to-retainer connection means for connecting the glove portion to the first article retention means. The glove-to-retainer connection means are located so as to enable positioning of the first article retention means on a back side of the glove portion. With one embodiment, the glove-to-retainer connection means include a pouch-mounted hook-or-loop connector attached to a back side of the first article retention pouch and include a complementary glove-mounted loop-or-hook connector attached to the glove back side. With another embodiment, the glove-to-retainer connection means include flexible hinge members connected between the glove portion and a combination of pouches, enabling the combination of pouches to be readily flipped from the glove back side to the glove palm side and vice versa.

Abstract: A cap (1), preferably in the form of a baseball cap, including a hood (3) with a hood edge (33, 34), as well as a lining (4) which extends along at least a part of the inner surface of the cap (3). The lining (4) has a lining part (41) which is fixed to the hood (3), and at least one edge part (42) which is loose from the hood (3). The loose lining edge part (42) is provided with a flexible reinforcement member (50), for example a whalebone.

Abstract: According to the first embodiment of the present invention, a protective rain legging is disclosed, comprising: a waterproof leg encircling portion with an inner side, an outer side, a top opening and a bottom opening. The top opening is higher on the outer side of the leg-encircling portion, and slopes downward towards the lower inner side of the top portion of the legging. An attachment means is fixedly attached to the outer side of the top opening, for attaching the leg-encircling portion to the waist portion of a garment worn by the wearer.

Abstract: Novel undergarments, in particular briefs and panties, are described. The undergarments comprise a front panel and back panel secured to one another, further including a torso-encircling band integral therewith. The longitudinal length of the back panel is sufficiently short such that when the undergarment is worn, a portion of the wearer's buttocks, in particular the proximal portion of the crevice between the wearer's buttocks, is visible.

Abstract: A method of making a boxer-style pant having side seams, a contracted crotch region and hanging legs. A flat web is provided. Portions are removed from the flat web to define leg openings. The flat web is then contracted either elastically or inelastically in selected areas along the flat web between the leg openings. The flat web is cut into separate pieces, folded and side seams are formed. The pant may include an absorbent.

Abstract: An improved retention system for a protective helmet comprises slide/coupling mechanisms on opposite sides of the helmet shell, and a movable element at the rear of the helmet. Fastening of the chinstrap secures the helmet in the downward direction and tightens the movable element against the nape of the neck, thereby securing the helmet in the area of the occipital lobe.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and structural arrangement for permanently attaching lenses to goggles which include a shielding member contoured for shielding the eyes of a user. The attachment of the lenses to the frame structures of goggles is achieved during the formation of the frame structures. A variety of engaging structures between the lenses and a frame body can be formed together with the formation of the frame structure in a plastic formation molding procedure.

Abstract: An upper body protector is configured to protect a person from compression trauma. The protector is formed with rigid protection elements and shoulder straps on the protection elements. In order to create one such upper body protector which offers not only especially high protection against compression of the upper body, but is also as comfortable to wear as possible and does not limit the freedom of movement of the carrier, the shoulder straps and the protection elements together form at least two cage elements of fiber-reinforced plastic material. The cage element are formed with at least one tubular body consisting of a fiber-reinforced plastic material, especially a carbon fiber reinforced plastic material.

Abstract: A seat pad for a cyclist garment, a method of manufacture thereof, and a cyclist garment including the same, are provided. The multi-layer seat pad includes an inner layer for contacting the cyclist, an outer layer for affixing to the garment, and a compressible, resilient middle layer disposed between the outer and inner layers, wherein the outer layer covers less than all of the inner layer.

Abstract: An air water closet includes a suction channel to remove air having a foul odor from a bowl of the water closet, with the air being removed through a first compartment, extending around the rim at the top of the bowl, through holes in the bottom surface of this compartment. A rinsing channel is also provided for rinsing the bowl. Air is removed through the operation of an exhaust fan, which may be turned on and off using an electric switch, or which may be turned on whenever the proximity of a person near the water closet is detected.

Abstract: A portable bidet configured having a convertible structure with a larger overall size during its use and a compact, smaller size during storing.

Abstract: A system for collecting bio-waste material is provided. The system includes a plurality of collection receptacles associated with a structure, each of the plurality of collection receptacles receiving the bio-waste material without the use of water as a carrier. A transport network extends from each of the plurality of collection receptacles to at least one storage receptacle located at the structure. A plurality of electromechanical carts are disposed within the transport network and automatically collect and package the bio-waste material to form packaged bio-waste material. The electromechanical carts can be configured for use as a multiple-cart train-cart system that is guided from one location to the next over a series of rails or tracks. In addition, bio-waste can be moved to one or more positions in a multi-level structure using any number of lift or drop mechanisms, including air-pressurized systems, hydraulic or pneumatic platforms, and the like.

Abstract: A shampoo bed used in a hair salon to wash the hair of customers before their hair is cut and styled. The shampoo bed is positioned adjacent a prior art sink unit so that when the customer lays on the shampoo bed the customer's head is positioned over the basin without the customer being required to excessively tilt his/her head back. The salon shampoo bed includes an elongated main cushioned portion, a frame portion that extends the length of the main cushioned portion. The cushioned portion further includes a shampoo end that in use is in abutting communication with the engaging end of the sink unit. The shampoo bed further includes an extension member pivotally mounted to an end of the frame portion, and pivot means to engage the extension member in a preferred position for application of the shampoo bed, and a second position for preferred non-use of the shampoo bed.

Abstract: A spa comprised of a fluid enclosure having a floor and an upstanding sidewall includes a therapy station within the enclosure. The therapy station includes an upright seat to accommodate a single person and includes a plurality of fluid jets in the footwell and sidewall of the enclosure at various targeted hydrotherapy locations. Pressurized water is provided to the hydrotherapy locations by a pair of fluid pumps. Each jet at the hydrotherapy locations is provided with a variable flow controller adapted to control the water flow out of the jet. Each hydrotherapy location is also provided with a variable flow controller adapted to control the flow of air into the jet. Each hydrotherapy location is also provided with a directional flow controller. Each jet discharges water flow at one horsepower or more to provide intense hydrotherapy selectably directed to multiple portions of the body simultaneously or individually.

Abstract: A shower system includes a shower area defined by a shower stall or primary wall having at least one misting nozzle coupled thereto. The primary wall is enclosed by a shower stall housing or a secondary wall, whereby an air channel is defined between the shower stall and the shower stall housing. A controller directs misted air through the misting nozzle and further activates an air flow system such that misted air within the shower area flows through and is dried in the air channel.

Abstract: A tub surround includes a retainer assembly which is mounted within an outer band section to receive an inner band section to connect the surround sections. The retainer assembly also permits the surround to be arranged in a packaged arrangement, which is conducive to efficient storage and shipment.

Abstract: An improved combination security and decontamination gate to be used at various venues and areas which entertain large numbers of people. The gates may be set up at entrance and exit areas of the venue or area for security purposes, as well as to facilitate quick and thorough decontamination of as many people and objects as possible in the event of an emergency. The gate contains a plurality of liquid conduits and spray heads and can be mounted on a variety of surfaces.

Abstract: A stretcher supporter, and a method of balancing a stretcher supporter for a patient lifting device, are disclosed. The stretcher supporter includes an open frame, wherein said open frame provides for secure attachment of a stretcher to said open frame and an adjustable lifting point connected to said open frame, wherein said adjustable lifting point suspends said open frame and rotatably shifts to substantially balance said stretcher respective to said open frame. The method of balancing a stretcher supporter for a patient lifting device, includes the steps of securely attaching a stretcher to an open frame of said stretcher supporter and adjusting a lifting point connected to said open frame, wherein said adjusting a lifting point suspends said open frame and linearly and rotatably shifts to substantially balance said stretcher respective to said open frame.

Abstract: A child sleeping assembly includes a floorboard, an adjustable panel movably connected to the floorboard to move between a reclined position and an inclined position, a frame mounted to the floorboard, and a fabric enclosure mounted to the floorboard and the frame. The fabric enclosure has a sidewall and floor that defines an enclosed child sleeping area. The sidewall encircles the child sleeping area. The child sleeping assembly also can include an adjustment element connected to the floorboard and configured to travel in an adjustment track of the panel to control positioning of the panel between the reclined position and the inclined position.

Abstract: A bassinet and changing table assembly includes a frame, a changing table mounted to the frame, and a bassinet releasably mounted to the changing table and/or the frame so that the bassinet is positioned over the changing table. Hence, the diaper changing activity is separated from the child sleeping area.

Abstract: A stand is described for supporting a hammock, the stand comprising several tubular members which can be assembled into an arc shaped stand having a support hook on one end and two horizontally spaced support hooks on the opposite end.

Abstract: A slumber bag for a small child is provided having a quilted fabric front and back panel which are preferably connected to form a bag, and preferably at least two straps at or near an upper opening in the bag. The straps act to hold the bag in place on the child. Preferably, the straps extend from one panel to the other, around the sides of the slumber bag, and preferably, the straps are adjustable and are releasable connected using parachute clips. The slumber bag effectively covers the legs and lower torso of the child, and while easily removable by a care-giver, resists inadvertent removal by the child.

Abstract: This invention relates to a high loft flame resistant batting, and an article such as a mattress containing such batting; the batting comprising a base layer and a resilient layer, the base layer comprising 10 to 30 parts by weight heat resistant fibers, 35 to 55 parts by weight of a cellulose fiber that retains at least 10 percent of its fiber weight when heated in air to 700 C at a rate of 20 degrees C. per minute, and 15 to 25 parts by weight binder material; the resilient layer comprising 0 to 50 parts by weight modacrylic fibers, 50 to 85 parts by weight polyester fiber, and 15 to 25 parts by weight binder material. The base layer comprises 20 to 70 parts by weight and the resilient layer comprises 80 to 30 parts by weight of the batting, based on the total weight of those two layers, and the batting has a total thickness of 1.25 centimeters (0.5 inches) or greater.

Abstract: A crib sheet with attachment points used to attach to the crib rails or bed frame. The crib sheet is used in combination with an infant sleep garment that attaches to the crib sheet by hook and loop mechanism. Attachment to the crib frame or bed frame, rather than the mattress, eliminates the risk that the infant's movements can cause the crib sheet to move or shift. Two points of attachment lie on either side of the shoulders or upper torso of the infant. The sleep garment has a arm restraint mechanism that acts to prevent movement of the infant's arms so that the infant cannot use its arms to escape the garment or to move itself about the crib or bed.

Abstract: The bedding article comprises a plurality of channels which extend longitudinally or laterally of the featherbed and into which fill can be blown. Each channel is divided into two longitudinal portions, accomplished by a line of lateral stitching across the channel. The two portions have different lengths, with the two lengths alternating from end to end for adjacent channels.

Abstract: A mattress retainer for use with adjustable beds. The mattress retainer can be secured to an upper surface of a mattress support, between the mattress support and a mattress positioned thereon. In one embodiment, the mattress support is configured to engage a taped edge border of the mattress to thereby constrain movement of the mattress relative to the mattress support when the mattress support is articulated to raise and/or lower various portions of the mattress. The mattress retainer includes a channel formed on an outboard edge for receiving the taped edge border of the mattress. The taped edge border can be clamped within the channel to thereby fix the position of the mattress relative to the mattress support.

Abstract: A bed frame for supporting a mattress includes at least first and second sections connectable to form a mattress supporting platform. The platform includes a latch to hold the first and second sections together.. The latch includes engageable parts on the first and second sections that are engageable in response to relative sliding movement between the first and second sections toward each other when oriented horizontally.

Abstract: The invention provides a foldable stretcher, comprising a first pair of axially-alignable rigid longitudinal members (12), each member (12) having arm inner and an outer extremity (14, 16) and being hingedly connected (18) at its inner extremity (14) to its adjacent member (12) by a longitudinal linkage (20, 20a); a second pair of axially-alignable rigid longitudinal members (12a), each member having an inner (14a) and an outer (16a) extremity and also being hingedly connected at its inner extremity (14a) to its adjacent member (12a) by a longitudinal linkage (20a), the pairs of longitudinal members (12) being interconnected in spaced-apart array by a flexible web (22) suspended therebetween; and four longitudinal carrier handle members (24), each having t an outer extremity (26) configured for grasping and lifting, and each having an inner extremity hingedly (36) connected to one of the outer extremities (16) of the longitudinal members (12, 12a) by means of a link member (38), and each of handle members (24

Abstract: The pillow kit cover member, which includes substantially identical top and bottom portions, each of which includes inner and outer layers. The top and bottom portions are secured around the peripheries thereof, except for one side, which includes a zipper or similar element for opening and closing the pillow. The pillow includes an interior chamber assembly, which comprises baffle members which extend between the inner layers of the top and bottom portions, defining individual chambers which extend the length of the pillow. Filling is provided within the pillow chamber, as well as a plurality of inserts, having various fillings, which are selectively insertable into and removable from the pillow chambers. Different combinations of inserts vary the support characteristics of the pillow.

Abstract: A support pillow comprises a cushion body having a medial region and two opposing arms that define a generally open well, with the cushion body having an outer periphery and an inner periphery adjacent the well. An adjustable suspension system is used to suspend one or more objects above the pillow.

Abstract: A sleep positioner comprises a body region having a top surface forming loop fasteners and first and second support cushions each having a flat bottom surface having at least one hook fastener. The support cushions are removably positionable on the top surface of the body region to form a space therebetween to receive and maintain an infant in a supine position. A support pillow extends from at least a portion of the body region and includes a cushion member having a support region, to support at least a portion of the head of the infant, at least partially surrounding a pressure relief region. The pressure relief region is configured to receive at least a portion of the back side of the head such that pressure applied to the back side of the head is reduced when lying in the supine position.

Abstract: A rigid foldable portable diaper changing pad provided with a plurality of support panels. At least one of the support panels is provided with a section overlaying an adjacent panel to provide stability and prevent the panels from being rotated more than 180°. An additional panel provided at a right angle from the plane of the aforementioned panels would be utilized to support the changing pad on a faucet spigot. This panel would also be utilized to prevent scalding of an infant, if the water were to be turned on accidently.

Abstract: A baby bag that is convertible to a baby carrier includes a base that is movable between a folded configuration for storage and transport of the baby bag, and an unfolded configuration for receiving a baby. In an embodiment, a harness is connected to the base for restraining a baby received upon the base such that a back of the baby is maintained in close proximity to the base. In the same or another embodiment, a shoulder strap is attached to the base for suspension of the base, whereby a baby received upon the base may be carried by a person utilizing the shoulder strap.

Abstract: A foam mattress includes a reticulated, viscoelastic foam that makes up the mattress in whole or in part. The reticulated nature of the viscoelastic foam allows a user to enjoy the benefits of softness and conformability of a viscoelastic foam and also an improved breathability. The foam mattress may include a plurality of zones of foam and/or a plurality of layers of foam, where one of the layers may be reticulated urethane for improved breathability and humidity resistance, as well as heat dissipation.

Abstract: A process for the production of semifinished products and intermediates in the production of leather using one or more organic polyelectrolytes comprises at least one of the following steps: (a) Addition of one or more polyelectrolytes and from 0 to 0.7% by weight, based on the salted weight, of lime immediately before or during liming, (b) addition of one or more polyelectrolytes before or during deliming, (c) addition of one or more polyelectrolytes before or during bating, (d) addition of one or more polyelectrolytes and a total of from 0 to 3% by weight, based on the pelt weight, of alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt immediately before or in the pickle.

Abstract: In a method of making fish skin leather, a fish skin with fish scales thereon is washed, cleaned, and tanned. Then, the fish scales are removed from the tanned fish skin to expose a plurality of ridges underlying the fish scales and presenting fish skin grains. The resultant fish skin leather has a skin substrate having a surface with fish skin grains that include a plurality of ridges which project from the surface of the skin substrate.

Abstract: A method for producing an improved washed and plushed upholstery fabric in a continuous process includes the provision of a soft, dimensionally stable, nonwoven fabric backing. After the chemical application of an anti-migrant and softener, the fabric is washed in a rope form, opened and de-twisted. After the fabric is rewound and further coatings are applied, an adhesive is applied to hold a nonwoven web to the previously prepared fabric in a rewinding process. The fabric is then subjected to a steam flow process to enhance the fabric texture and reduce the width of the fabric.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to stain-resist compositions, and particularly, but not by way of limitation, to fibers and textiles treated with stain-resist compositions.

Abstract: Described herein are compositions and methods for imparting stain resistance, liquid repellency and enhanced antimicrobial activity to an article. Also described herein are articles treated with the compositions and methods described herein.

Abstract: Soil removal methods, especially non-immersive soil removal methods, and devices employed in such methods for removing and/or reducing soil present on leather articles are provided.

Abstract: A washing machine includes an on-axis balancing fluid injection system for correcting an out-of-balance rotating inner tub or spinner. The laundry appliance includes an outer tub having molded thereto a plurality of fluid delivery channels into which are arranged a pair of stationary balancing fluid injectors which selectively dispense the balancing fluid into either a front or rear injection zone of the inner tub. Upon activation, the injectors discharge an amount of balancing fluid into a nozzle assembly which is positioned to re-direct the balancing fluid into select pockets arranged about the front and rear injection zones. The injectors discharge the balancing fluid near a hub portion of the rotating inner tub so that the fluid is dispensed at an area of low velocity.

Abstract: A suspension system for use in a laundry washing machine to suspend a tub assembly from a base portion of a cabinet. The suspension system includes a support frame interconnected to an outer tub of the tub assembly and an isolation damper assembly for resiliently coupling the support frame to the base portion of the cabinet. The isolation damper assembly functions to allow limited lateral movement of the tub assembly relative to the cabinet while also providing a “return to center” feature. The isolation damper assembly is further operable to prevent rotation of the outer tub relative to the cabinet. Finally, the isolation damper assembly functions to absorb the vibration transmitted through the tub assembly to the support frame so as to minimize transmission of such vibration to the cabinet.

Abstract: A motor having a stator and a rotor is provided as a direct drive for a laundry treatment appliance. The stator of the motor is preferably centered by a preferably cylindrical or conical protuberance in a bearing hole in a bearing spider or a rear wall of a tub of the laundry treatment appliance. The stator may have lugs on pole insulation which guide the rotor during installation, so that permanent-magnet poles of the rotor cannot strike soft-magnetic poles of the stator. A method for installation of the motor is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method to achieve a reversible change of the colour of hair dyed with an azo dye wherein the change of the colour can be effected by, for example, the salonist or the consumer in a simple manner. The colour of the hair thus dyed may be changed simply by treating the dyed hair with an acid treatment composition at any time after the first dyeing treatment. If desired by the consumer, the colour may be returned to substantially the original post dye colour by treating the hair further with an alkaline treatment composition.